Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms carried by _______ that can cause disease in humans.

Bloodborne pathogens are specifically defined as infectious microorganisms that are transmitted through blood. This includes viruses and bacteria that can lead to serious diseases in humans, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. The key characteristic of these pathogens is that they are primarily spread when blood from an infected person enters the bloodstream of another individual, highlighting the importance of blood as the vector for transmission.

In contrast, while water, air, and food can carry various types of pathogens, they do not specifically classify under the term "bloodborne." Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially in settings where exposure to blood is possible, as it informs the necessary precautions and safety protocols to prevent infection.